THUNDER BAY = Nipissing University and The Assembly of First Nations are pleased to host the Ka Na Ta Conversations, Engaging in Change: Reflections and Strategies on First Nations — Canada Relations, taking place at the university on Thursday, April 4 at 6:15 p.m. in the Nipissing Theatre (F213). 

The Conversations will be moderated by National Chief Shawn Atleo from the Assembly of First Nations. The distinguished panel of guest speakers includes Chief Marianna Couchie, Dr. José Barreiro, Former National Chief Ovide Mercredi and The Honourable Steven Point. The Ka Na Ta Conversations are a series of lectures designed to inspire and encourage new conversations among all Canadians through embracing an Indigenous worldview.

Ka Na Ta Conversations

“Community partnerships are essential to growth, development and engaging in change; Nipissing University is present in North Bay as a result of community demand for an institute of higher learning. The Ka Na Ta Conversations are a wonderful opportunity for our community and our students to be an active voice in a very important discussion about Canada’s future,” said Dr. Mike DeGagné, President of Nipissing University.  “I am immensely pleased to welcome such insightful guests to the university and am proud that Nipissing is playing a leading role in advancing this discussion.”

“The Ka Na Ta Conversations build on and support many conversations happening right across the country.  By reflecting on past experiences and moments of opportunity, we can learn from the past and push forward to a future based on respect and reconciliation.  With a surging young population and unprecedented pressure and opportunity within our lands – now is the time to come together and drive forward change and success,” said National Chief Atleo. “I invite Nipissing’s students and the youth of the region to participate in this conversation.  The voice of today’s youth is vital to our Nations and to the broader Canadian economic, social and cultural future. Through this open dialogue, through expanding the circle and focusing on what is needed now, the Ka Na Ta conversations can make a significant contribution to First Nation — Canada relations.”

About The KA NA TA Conversations:

The KA NA TA Conversations recall the original relationships (as between Jacques Cartier and the Iroquois and Huron who explained that this land was ‘KA NA TA’ or the village) and explore the pressing need to correct misunderstandings and injustices as a key element of advancing reconciliation, respect and constructing the Canadian identity of the future.

• Honour the past and respective rights and responsibilities fully and meaningfully;
• Commit to reconciliation in the present; and,
• Envision a future that achieves justice, mutuality and fairness and fulfillls uniquely Canadian potential in the world.